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Jaguar XK8

The XK series of Jaguar vehicles has a long history in the Jaguar line. The XK vehicles originally appeared in the 1960s and ran until the 1970s. The XK8 line was a return to the line. Introduced in 1997, the XK8 showcased the new V-8 engine developed by Jaguar. It ran from 1996 until 2006.

A XKR was introduced in 2000. This version was a bit more powerful than the XR8, boasting a 4.0-liter V-8 engine that produced 370 horsepower and 378 lb-ft of torque. The car could accelerate from zero to 60 mph in an impressive 5.1 seconds, making it one of the most powerful Jaguars ever made. In 2003, the engine was upgraded again into a 390-horsepower monster.

Although the vehicles were made for power, a speed limiter was also installed to keep a driver from taking off and getting expensive speeding tickets.

Safety on the XR8 was a priority. Jaguar installed an Adaptive Restraint Technology System that included head-protection extensions on the seat. Side-impact airbags were standard, and steering had traction control to prevent slipping in bad weather conditions as well as a Dynamic Stability Control to prevent wheel spinning. Emergency brake assist was installed to shorten the distance of braking substantially. One luxury the Jaguar XK8 had over some of the competition was a standard back-up assist that warns when the vehicle is nearing obstacles while parking.

Jaguar XK8 Features

The styling of the X8 is pretty impressive, with its bullet shape and hatch back. The grille looks like it was taken from another car, however. The XK8 was likely served better with front vents.

The XK8 was introduced as a coupe and convertible. It was the first Jaguar to ever offer a V-8 engine on any of its vehicles. The 4.0-liter engine produced 290 horsepower with a lot of impressive low-end torque to get the vehicle moving. The XK8 was capable of moving zero to 60 mph in 6.7 seconds. The acceleration was impressive, and the handling was also a thrill. The suspension made for an impressive ride that helped the vehicle hug the road even during tight turns.

The inside of the vehicle had that classic Jaguar feel car enthusiasts pine for. Wooden trim was also included. However, the interior looks a bit old when compared to newer vehicles in the Jaguar line, meaning it hasn’t aged very well. The look is retro, but almost unfortunately so. The cramped feeling inside adds to the disappointment with. The cargo area has little to offer as well.

Jaguar XK8 Evolution

In 2003, the engine received a powerful upgrade. The 4.0-liter engine was able to produce 294 horsepower with 303 lb-ft of torque. The zero to 60 mph acceleration rate was cut to 6.1 seconds. A six-speed automatic transmission was added in 2003 as well, giving the driver a lot of control. Although the body remained untouched, 900 minor changes were made to the interior and mechanics. No further updates were made until the car was discontinued in 2006.

2003 saw changes to the badging and headlights. New alloy wheels were added to the XK8 as well. The grilled was fitted with a splitter and was changed to a chrome mesh to better reflect the styling of other Jaguars in the line. The side-sills of the vehicle were changed. The rear bumper was extended so that it was a bit deeper, and the 18-inch alloy wheels came standard.

The soft top on convertible models was very convenient with its one-button automatic latching system. The glass rear window had a defogger for added luxury. Oddly though, the hardtop lagged behind the competition by not adding a sunroof.

Seating inside the Jaguar is cramped; the four-seat vehicle could comfortably seat only two people. The back seats are only big enough for children. Getting in and out of the vehicle can be a bit difficult for tall passengers. The tilt steering wheel is one thing that may keep the ride comfortable.

The Jaguar has a lot of history and this retro throwback shows that the heritage behind Jaguar vehicles is a strong one. Handling, power, and stability count for a lot when driving the XR8. Don’t hesitate if you can snag one of these vehicles.